Salisbury Shakers January meet-up
Salisbury support group organiser Sheelagh reflects on the Salisbury Shakers meet-up held on 10th January 2026
The Salisbury Shakers had their first meet-up of 2026
Well we had rather a chaotic start today, didn’t we? With the crowded coffee tables, the coffee station in a different place and searching for people I didn’t know and then the long, long queue for the loo. Jillian’s David was a star – opening up, getting the chairs out and clearing up at the end when Amy was talking to me. It made a lot of difference – thank you, David.
Anyway, we managed to squash in to our room despite the rail of Nativity clothes and other bits and pieces. 16 of us in all. You can’t see Liz in the picture because she is hiding behind the person next to her, and Susan seems to be missing. Amy took the photo.
It was good to welcome new members, Felicity and Susan and also Ken’s wife Sandy and Richard’s daughter, Amy. Unfortunately, the other new lady, Moira, had a fall on her way to the station and had to return home. We hope to see her next time.
Everyone updated us on how things had been for them since the last meeting and there seemed to be a general trend of either lack of interest by the medical profession or impossibly long waiting lists, or people not achieving promised appointments. All very frustrating. We also discussed balance issues which many of us have and we will try to get a physio to come and talk to us.
Liz very kindly brought along some lovely illustrated and easy-to-read maps of Salisbury which were much appreciated and so much more straightforward than a satnav for people who are travelling a distance.
Sheelagh had been sent 9 Beechbands for people to trial. Eight of these were distributed. People are encouraged to try the device for about 7 hours a day for six weeks, after which they will have the opportunity to feed back their experiences. Sheelagh suggested keeping a daily diary – just a brief comment on how the day had been, wearing the device. We talked about having to charge it half way through, which could be difficult when people are away from home. Somebody suggested using one of those portable battery packs that are available.
I have one spare Beechband. If someone who was not at the meeting would like to try it, I am happy to send it to you. First come, first served!
In six weeks’ time we have our next meeting so it will be interesting to hear how people have found it.
Our next meeting is on February 21st and the following one is on 21st March.
Sheelagh
